Pontifical Council for the FamilyThe Council is responsible for the promotion of the pastoral ministry and apostolate to the family, through the application of the teachings and guidelines of the ecclesiastical Magisterium, to help Christian families fulfill their educational and apostolic mission.

It also promotes and coordinates pastoral efforts related to the issue of responsible procreation, and encourages, sustains and coordinates initiatives in defense of human life in all stages of its existence, from conception to natural death.

Also in relation to the pastoral care of the family and the defense of life, the following themes fall within the Council's sphere of competence:

Theology and catechesis of the family

Conjugal and family spirituality

The rights of the family and the child

Formation of the laity for the pastoral care of the family; marriage preparation courses

Other questions dealt with by the Council include:

Sex education

Demographics

Contraception and abortion

Sterilization

Ethical and pastoral problems related to aids and other problems of bioethics

Legislation regarding marriage, the family, family policies and the protection of human life